His Excellency Dr Saad bin Saud Al Fuhaid, President of the Arab Gulf University (AGU), met with Dr Alireza Haghighi, Director of the International Centre for Genetic Diseases at Harvard University, to discuss avenues for scientific and research collaboration between the university and the centre in the field of genomics. The meeting focused on a partnership to leverage genomics in the discovery of genetic diseases, aiming to find cures for complex and rare diseases.

The meeting highlighted the importance of joint research in discovering genetic diseases and utilising modern genomic technologies to find effective treatments for complex and rare diseases, which represent a significant challenge in medicine. The discussion also covered the potential for developing academic and research programmes to enhance the exchange of knowledge and technology between both parties.

Dr Al Fuhaid expressed his eagerness to strengthen the partnership with Harvard University, emphasising the importance of international collaboration in developing innovative medical solutions to improve patients' lives. He noted that this step is part of AGU's vision for academic and research excellence in the field of medical sciences.

Dr Alireza Haghighi welcomed the collaboration with AGU, noting that Harvard's International Centre for Genetic Diseases continuously seeks to expand its collaboration network with prestigious universities and leading research institutions in the Middle East and the Arabian Gulf. He explained that collaboration with AGU, with its medical, academic, and research expertise, will contribute to significant progress in understanding and treating genetic diseases.

The meeting also discussed undertaking joint research projects focusing on using genomics for early detection of genetic diseases, as well as developing innovative treatment methods for rare and complex diseases.

Dr Haghighi stressed that genomics enhances the understanding of complex diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases by identifying mutations and genetic variations.

He highlighted the widespread adoption of genomics thanks to sequencing technologies, the development of artificial intelligence and machine learning, and the availability of a larger base of researchers and physicians utilising this effective tool.

He stated: "In the coming years, we have witnessed an increase in investment and interest in genomics, with various countries today striving to build genomic research capabilities and establishing national genomics programmes."

He explained that the significant efforts made in the Kingdom of Bahrain and other Gulf countries confirm their diligent pursuit of a qualitative leap.